2017-10-15T16:00:00-04:002017-10-15T17:30:00-04:00http://newyork.carpediem.cd/data/afisha/bp/2a/77/2a779a4d61.jpgThe Buddha’s enlightenment didn’t come easy, and the obstacles he overcame have much to teach us. Prominent secular Buddhist writer Stephen Batchelor joins us on stage to discuss archetypes of good, evil, and the Buddha’s struggle with both on his journey...http://newyork.carpediem.cd/events4339066-stephen-batchelor-the-buddha-mara-the-question-of-evil-at-rubin-museum-of-art/Stephen Batchelor - The Buddha, Mara & the Question of Evil150 W 17th St, New York, New York 10011Rubin Museum of Art

Stephen Batchelor - The Buddha, Mara & the Question of Evil

The Buddha’s enlightenment didn’t come easy, and the obstacles he overcame have much to teach us. Prominent secular Buddhist writer Stephen Batchelor joins us on stage to discuss archetypes of good, evil, and the Buddha’s struggle with both on his journey to enlightenment.

Māra, a demonic figure who tried to prevent the Buddha’s awakening, symbolizes obstacles in the way of our becoming wholly human and fully alive. Drawing on a range of sources from early Buddhist psychology to Dante and Baudelaire, Batchelor will explore this archetype and its continuing relevance.

The figure of Māra has informed Stephen’s work for many years, including his libretto MARA: A Chamber Opera, the first full concert performance of which will be held at the Rubin Museum for two performances, 10/18 and 10/20.